Horsehair vs Microfiber
Professional Material Comparison
Horsehair
Natural Horsehair (Mane and Tail)
Premium luxury filling material from horse manes and tails, used for centuries in high-end bedding
Average Price
$250
Lifespan
20-40+ years
Microfiber
Microfiber Polyester Fill
Ultra-fine synthetic polyester fibers designed to mimic down softness at an affordable price
Average Price
$28
Lifespan
2-4 years
Quick Comparison
| Feature | Horsehair | Microfiber |
|---|---|---|
| Support Level | High | Low to Medium |
| Firmness | 6-8/10 (Medium-firm to Firm) | 3-6/10 (Soft to Medium) |
| Temperature | Cool | Neutral to Warm |
| Durability | 20-40+ years | 2-4 years |
| Hypoallergenic | ||
| Avg Price | $250 | $28 |
Physical Properties & Feel
Horsehair
Support Level:
High
Firmness:
6-8/10 (Medium-firm to Firm)
Durability:
20-40+ years
Bounce:
High
Contouring:
Low to Medium
Microfiber
Support Level:
Low to Medium
Firmness:
3-6/10 (Soft to Medium)
Durability:
2-4 years
Bounce:
Medium to High
Contouring:
Low
Temperature Regulation & Breathability
Horsehair
Temperature Rating:
Cool
Breathability:
Exceptional breathability - among the best of all pillow materials. Each horsehair strand functions as a hollow tube with microscopic capillary action that channels away moisture while constantly funneling fresh air through the material. The natural curl of processed horsehair creates spacing between fibers allowing unobstructed air circulation. Horsehair is so effective at moisture management that if soaked with water and shaken, it dries almost immediately. This superior ventilation keeps the pillow cool and dry throughout the night, preventing the growth of fungi, bacteria, and dust mites that thrive in damp conditions. Temperature regulation is excellent - cool in summer, dry in winter.
Microfiber
Temperature Rating:
Neutral to Warm
Breathability:
Limited breathability compared to natural materials. Polyester fibers do not wick moisture effectively, leading to heat and sweat retention. The synthetic nature creates less airflow than down, wool, or cotton. Some premium microfiber designs incorporate gel-infused or ventilated technologies to improve cooling, but standard microfiber tends to sleep warm. The dense packing of fine fibers reduces air circulation. Better than solid foam but significantly inferior to natural latex with pincore holes or down with natural loft spaces.
Certifications & Standards
Horsehair
Microfiber
Advantages & Disadvantages
Horsehair
Advantages
Disadvantages
Microfiber
Advantages
Disadvantages
Expert Recommendation
Both Horsehair and Microfiber are excellent pillow materials with distinct advantages. Your optimal choice depends on your individual sleep needs, physical requirements, budget constraints, and personal preferences.
Choose Horsehair if you:
- •Hot sleepers and night sweaters
- •Dust mite allergy sufferers
- •Those seeking long-term investment
- •Luxury bedding enthusiasts
Choose Microfiber if you:
- •Budget-conscious shoppers
- •Feather allergy sufferers
- •Dust mite allergy (with regular washing)
- •Vegans and animal welfare advocates
Ideal Use Cases
Horsehair
Hot sleepers and night sweaters - superior moisture-wicking prevents damp, uncomfortable sleeping surface
Dust mite allergy sufferers - processed horsehair creates inhospitable environment for mite colonization
Those seeking long-term investment - 20-40+ year lifespan justifies high initial cost over time
Luxury bedding enthusiasts - appreciate premium materials with centuries of aristocratic heritage
People with chemical sensitivities - natural material processed without synthetic chemicals or additives
Those with neck and shoulder pain requiring firm support - maintains proper cervical alignment
Humid climate sleepers - moisture-wicking properties prevent mildew and maintain dry environment
Microfiber
Budget-conscious shoppers - most affordable pillow option with decent quality
Feather allergy sufferers - excellent down alternative without animal proteins
Dust mite allergy (with regular washing) - synthetic fibers resist mite colonization when kept clean
Vegans and animal welfare advocates - 100% cruelty-free synthetic alternative
Frequent travelers - lightweight and compressible for easy packing
Guest rooms and vacation homes - affordable option for occasional use
College students and renters - inexpensive, low-commitment bedding for temporary living
Those needing easy-care bedding - simple machine washing without professional cleaning
Allergen Resistance & Health Concerns
Horsehair
Hypoallergenic:
Allergies:
Properly processed horsehair is considered hypoallergenic and suitable for most allergy sufferers. The manufacturing process involves washing in boiling water, then steaming at 284°F (140°C) at four times atmospheric pressure with high humidity. This thorough sanitization removes proteins, allergens, and bacteria that could trigger allergic reactions. Multiple manufacturers report they have not encountered customers experiencing allergies to properly processed horsehair. The material has earned NOMITE certification, indicating suitability for house dust mite allergy sufferers. However, individuals with specific horse protein allergies should test before purchasing. Always verify the horsehair has undergone proper high-temperature processing rather than simple washing.
Dust Mites:
Horsehair provides excellent resistance to dust mite colonization when properly processed. The high-temperature steaming process (284°F at four times atmospheric pressure) kills any existing mites and removes allergens. More importantly, horsehair's superior moisture-wicking properties create an inhospitable environment for dust mites, which require warm, humid conditions and human skin scales for survival. The constant air circulation and rapid moisture removal prevent the damp conditions dust mites need to thrive. Many horsehair products earn NOMITE certification, the anti-allergen standard indicating suitability for house dust mite allergy sufferers. This makes horsehair significantly better for dust mite allergies than organic materials like down, wool, or cotton which retain moisture and provide favorable habitats.
Chemical Concerns:
Minimal chemical concerns when purchasing from reputable manufacturers. Quality horsehair processing involves only water, steam, and high heat - no bleaching or chemical treatments. The entire sanitization process at high temperatures and pressure is completed without addition of foreign substances or synthetic chemicals. Look for OEKO-TEX Standard 100 certification ensuring horsehair has been tested and verified free from harmful chemicals and substances. No VOC off-gassing or synthetic processing. However, be cautious of very cheap horsehair products which may undergo inferior processing or use chemical treatments. Always verify the manufacturer uses proper steaming methods at 284°F+ temperatures.
Microfiber
Hypoallergenic:
Allergies:
Generally hypoallergenic due to synthetic nature that resists dust mites, mold, and mildew better than natural materials. Free from animal proteins that trigger feather allergies. However, some individuals may be sensitive to polyester itself or chemical treatments. Regular washing (every 3-4 months) is essential to prevent allergen accumulation. Research shows microfiber pillows can harbor respiratory pathogens - studies found high permeability (82-95%) for aerosol particles, meaning viruses and bacteria can penetrate the fabric and accumulate in fill. Not suitable for those allergic to synthetic materials or sensitive to chemical treatments like flame retardants.
Dust Mites:
Synthetic polyester fibers naturally resist dust mite colonization better than natural materials when new and clean. The smooth, non-porous surface of polyester provides fewer places for mites to attach compared to cotton or down. However, this advantage diminishes without regular washing - dust mites can still colonize surface layers and accumulated skin cells. Studies confirm synthetic pillows require regular laundering (every 3-4 months) to maintain dust mite resistance. Unlike claims of permanent protection, microfiber pillows accumulate allergens over time just like other materials. Machine washability in hot water offers advantage for killing mites and removing allergen accumulation.
Chemical Concerns:
Significant chemical concerns exist with microfiber pillows. Studies show polyester pillows can contain flame retardants (PBDEs) at levels of 107 parts per million - lower than polyurethane foam (3,646 ppm) but still present. These flame retardants are linked to cancer, reproductive issues, and neurological problems. Manufacturing process releases VOCs during production. New pillows may off-gas chemicals causing odors. A 2020 study found people sleeping on microfiber sheets had elevated phthalate levels in urine. Not naturally occurring - created through chemical processes using petroleum derivatives. Look for OEKO-TEX Standard 100 certification ensuring testing for 1,000+ harmful substances including formaldehyde, heavy metals, pesticides, and phthalates. CertiPUR-US certification available for some blended foam/microfiber products.
Care & Maintenance
Horsehair
Washable:
Washing Instructions:
NOT MACHINE WASHABLE. Horsehair pillows cannot be washed in machines as water and agitation damage the natural curl and resilience of the fibers. Spot clean only with damp cloth and mild soap for stains. The processed horsehair itself is inherently clean and antimicrobial after high-temperature steaming, so washing is rarely necessary.
Drying Instructions:
If pillow becomes damp from spot cleaning or humidity, air dry completely in well-ventilated area before use. Horsehair dries remarkably quickly due to water-repellent properties - when soaked and shaken, it dries almost immediately. Never use heat sources like dryers which damage fiber structure. Ensure 100% dryness before returning to bed.
Maintenance Tips:
- •Air out pillow outdoors in fresh air and indirect sunlight monthly for 2-3 hours to eliminate any trapped moisture
- •Fluff daily by grabbing opposite corners and shaking vigorously to redistribute fibers and maintain loft
- •Use tightly woven pillow protector (200+ thread count) to prevent coarse hairs from poking through fabric
Microfiber
Washable:
Washing Instructions:
Machine washable on gentle cycle with cold or warm water and mild detergent. Avoid hot water which can damage polyester fibers. Can typically be washed every 3-4 months. Some pillows recommend delicate cycle to prevent excessive clumping. Do not use fabric softener as it coats fibers and reduces loft.
Drying Instructions:
Tumble dry on low to medium heat. Add dryer balls or clean tennis balls to break up clumps and restore fluffiness. Microfiber dries relatively quickly due to water-repellent synthetic fibers. Ensure complete drying before use. High heat may damage fibers or release additional chemicals from flame retardant treatments.
Maintenance Tips:
- •Fluff daily by grabbing corners and shaking vigorously to redistribute fill and prevent clumping
- •Use pillow protector to shield from body oils, sweat, and allergens while allowing breathability
- •Air out weekly by removing pillowcase and letting pillow breathe in well-ventilated area
Price Range & Value
Horsehair
Low
$150
Average
$250
High
$400
Expected Lifespan:
20-40+ years
Microfiber
Low
$15
Average
$28
High
$50
Expected Lifespan:
2-4 years
Durability & Longevity Factors
Horsehair
Factors Affecting Lifespan:
- •Quality of horsehair processing - properly steamed and cleaned hair lasts significantly longer
- •Distinction between horsehair and horsetail - horsetail (from tail) is longer, stronger, springier and more durable
- •Quality of cover ticking - tightly woven fabric prevents fiber migration and protects fill integrity
- •Frequency of airing and maintenance - regular outdoor airing prevents moisture buildup extending lifespan
- •Storage conditions - keeping pillow in dry, well-ventilated environment prevents deterioration
- •Manufacturing quality - hand-teased loose horsehair outlasts cheaper rolled horsehair pads
- •Combination with other materials - pure horsehair often more durable than blends with shorter-lived fibers
Microfiber
Factors Affecting Lifespan:
- •Fiber quality - higher denier microfibers (1.2D or greater) last longer than ultra-fine 0.8D fibers
- •Fill density - more generously filled pillows maintain loft longer than sparsely filled options
- •Washing frequency - excessive washing accelerates fiber breakdown and clumping
- •Body weight and sleep position - heavier individuals and side sleepers compress fibers faster
- •Cover quality - tightly woven covers prevent fiber migration and extend pillow life
- •Flame retardant treatments - chemical treatments can degrade fibers over time
- •Storage conditions - humidity and heat accelerate polyester degradation
Environmental Impact & Sustainability
Horsehair
Sustainability:
Highly sustainable when sourced from reputable manufacturers practicing ethical collection. Horsehair is gathered during routine grooming that horses require anyway for health and hygiene - the mane and tail are trimmed regularly whether hair is collected or not. No horses are farmed specifically for hair production by ethical manufacturers. Quality suppliers verify horsehair is "acquired at the end of life" or from regular grooming, never from living horses farmed for hair. The material utilizes what would otherwise be grooming waste, creating beneficial circular economy. Processing requires only water and steam - no chemical treatments or energy-intensive manufacturing. Horses are not harmed, distressed, or killed for hair collection by ethical producers.
Biodegradable:
Manufacturing:
Relatively low environmental impact for luxury material. Processing involves washing in boiling water, steaming at 284°F at four times atmospheric pressure, rinsing, spinning, and natural drying. The entire process uses only water and heat - no chemical additives, bleaching, or synthetic treatments. Traditional hand-teasing methods (separating and curling individual fibers) are labor-intensive but require no machinery beyond basic equipment. Most environmental impact comes from transportation and the labor hours (150-160 hours for premium mattresses). At end of exceptionally long 20-40+ year lifespan, horsehair is completely biodegradable and decomposes naturally, returning nutrients to soil. The extended lifespan significantly reduces replacement frequency compared to synthetic alternatives lasting 2-5 years, ultimately reducing long-term environmental burden despite higher initial resource investment.
Microfiber
Sustainability:
Poor environmental profile overall. Microfiber is made from polyester (PET), a petroleum-based synthetic requiring extraction of non-renewable fossil fuels. Manufacturing is highly energy-intensive - requires double the energy of cotton production and uses high temperatures (up to 290°C) plus chemical catalysts. Process releases greenhouse gases and toxic pollutants into air and water. Nearly 70 million barrels of oil used annually for global polyester production. Microfiber pollution is severe environmental concern - studies show microfibers comprise 85% of human-made debris on shorelines worldwide. Each wash releases 200,000-500,000 tonnes of microplastic fibers into oceans, lakes, and rivers annually. These microfibers contaminate marine life, enter food chain, and have been found in table salt and seafood. Recycled microfiber (rPET from plastic bottles) reduces virgin material use by 59% energy but still sheds microplastics and requires energy-intensive processing.
Biodegradable:
Manufacturing:
Energy-intensive process involving petroleum extraction, chemical synthesis, high-temperature extrusion, and chemical treatments. Polyester production plants are major sources of hazardous air pollutants including volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and potential carcinogens. Manufacturing requires significant water for cooling processes. Many microfiber pillows treated with flame retardants (brominated or chlorinated compounds), antimicrobial agents, and fabric finishes using additional chemicals. Cannot be recycled with other textiles - mixed fiber composition makes recycling impossible. Downcycling into lower-grade products is only option. Takes 200+ years to decompose in landfills. Currently very few facilities exist to recycle microfiber pillows - most end up in landfills or oceans. Some companies offer recycled polyester options, but overall manufacturing footprint remains significant.